During National Alcohol Awareness Month, communities across the nation unite to shed light on the impact of alcohol consumption on individuals, families, and society at large. It’s a time for education, introspection, and support as we navigate the complexities of alcohol use and its consequences.
We hope you’ll join us as we explore the significance of this month, explore the latest research, and share resources aimed at promoting healthier relationships with alcohol. Together, let’s raise awareness, foster empathy, and empower positive change throughout April and beyond.
Are you or a loved one struggling with alcohol use? We can help. Click below to use our Local Resource Guide to find support groups, therapy options, and more community assistance.
The Impact Of Alcohol Use
Did you know that, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), more than 29.5 people ages 12 and older in the United States have alcohol use disorder? The NIH goes on to estimate that each year there are more than 178,000 deaths attributable to excessive alcohol use, making alcohol one of the leading preventable causes of death in the United States.
The overuse of alcohol in the United States is a serious and widespread issue with far-reaching consequences. From binge drinking to alcohol dependency, the effects permeate every part of society, impacting individuals, families, and communities nationwide.
This reality showcases the urgent need for increased awareness, prevention efforts, and access to treatment services to address the profound impact of alcohol misuse on individuals and society as a whole, which is why this month is National Alcohol Awareness Month.
How To Approach Alcohol Dependency & Addiction
At Fellowship Missions, we understand that alcohol abuse and dependency is a symptom of a larger problem for many people. The goal in recovery is to heal the reason and cause behind the person misusing alcohol one day at a time.
Recovery can be accomplished in a variety of ways, including:
Treatment
Treatment can involve supervised detox, inpatient, and outpatient treatment. It’s vital to enter treatment as the first step, as trying to detox alone can be extremely dangerous.
Therapy
There are many therapeutic options and styles that can help individuals recovering from alcohol dependency, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Application of Skills
Learning skills like meditation, mindfulness practices, and affect regulation skills are a key part of recovery. Being able to learn how to apply self-compassion, develop emotional awareness, and utilize safe relaxing techniques can be helpful.
Community Connection
Being in recovery can feel isolating, but we believe no one should have to fight addiction and alcohol dependency alone. Our goal is to make sure our community has the services and connections everyone needs to find restoration on their recovery journey.
Spiritual Connection
A relationship with God and Jesus Christ can be an integral part of many people’s recovery process. Making spiritual connections through attending church, getting involved in Bible studies, and attending Celebrate Recovery gatherings not only deepens a spiritual connection but can help those in recovery forge community connections as well.
Family Involvement
Did you know that when someone’s family is involved and supports their recovery efforts, it increases the chance of long-term recovery from alcohol abuse by 50%?
Family support can look different for everyone and include parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family, or chosen family. Family involvement should include those who have a consistent emotional relationship in the life of the person receiving treatment.
Improved Physical Health
As alcohol abuse is often a symptom masking a deeper cause, those in recovery need to receive a full physical and mental health examination. They might need medication to assist with detoxing, treating depression or PTSD, and other health challenges.
Case Management
Every person struggling with alcohol dependency has unique needs, challenges, and circumstances. Case managers work closely with clients to assess their specific situations and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their needs.
Reconnecting to jobs, finding stable housing, and arranging transportation – these are all things that case managers can assist those recovering from alcohol abuse accomplish.
Need Help?
If you or a loved one are facing homelessness, food insecurity, substance abuse, or addiction, we’re here to help.
Ready To Make A Difference?
Peer support in addiction recovery is an integral part of the healing process as it can provide emotional, social, and practical support to encourage long-term sobriety and well-being.
If you’re ready to get involved as a mentor or volunteer, click below to learn how you can help support those in your community through Fellowship Missions.
